OCALA – An Ocala woman who used to be a Marion County sheriff’s deputy was arrested Saturday during a traffic stop on allegations of robbing a bank just minutes earlier the Ocala Police Department said in a news release [Watch video below to see police make arrest] Thagard was previously employed by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy She was last employed by MCSO in April 2016 police responded to the TD Bank along SE 17th Street after a suspect — who was seen on surveillance video wearing a hoodie a medical mask and a glove on only one hand — passed a note to a teller demanding at least $50,000 in “big bills.” The assailant also stated ”I have a gun and will shoot if any alarms or dye packs are inclosed (sic)," investigators said The suspect left the bank with about $5,000 and was gone by the time officers arrived to the bank officers located the suspect — identified as Thagard — driving west on SW College Road Dashcam video shared by the police department showed Thagard’s arrest after which she was taken to police headquarters for questioning and a medical mask and a latex glove were among the items found during a search of the vehicle that Thagard was driving Police said they have not yet located a firearm Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved joined the ClickOrlando team in November 2021 TV Listings Email Newsletters RSS Feeds Contests and Rules Contact Us / Follow on Social Media Careers at WKMG Closed Captioning / Audio Description Public File Current EEO Report Terms of Use Privacy Policy Do Not Sell My Info FCC Applications EEO Report Disability Assistance Copyright © 2025 ClickOrlando.com is managed by Graham Digital and published by Graham Media Group Correction: The bank robber wore a medical face mask during the robbery A Jack Skellington face was on the front of the robber's hoodie sweatshirt An earlier version of this story and its headlines incorrectly described what the robber wore At times breathing heavily, crying, and clasping her hands together, Christina Gates Thagard was told more than once by Circuit Judge Ann Melinda Craggs not to talk about her case Several times during Thagard's court appearance on May 4 she could be heard saying she's sorry On suicide watch and charged with robbery with a firearm, Thagard was at the Marion County Jail on May 4 for her first appearance hearing (First appearance hearings on the weekends typically are held inside a small courtroom at the jail judges typically are at the courthouse and use Zoom to communicate with the inmates a former Marion County Sheriff's Office deputy was arrested by Ocala Police Department officers on May 3 accused of robbing the TD Bank branch at 2437 SE 17th St told the court she doesn't have any valuables The judge appointed the Public Defender's Office to represent her Assistant State Attorney Kyle Lambert asked the judge to keep Thagard on a no-bail status because the crime she's accused of is punishable by life in prison and she has a pending battery case Court records show Thagard was arrested March 24 by a Marion County Sheriff's deputy accused of domestic battery against her adult child Assistant Public Defender Sarah Gazulli asked the judge to set a reasonable bail The judge agreed with the prosecutor and declined to set bail citing the severity of the robbery charge and the prior arrest for domestic battery Thagard's next court hearing was set for June In the arrest affidavit, Ocala Police Detective Mark Pfeifer provided additional details about the case that were not immediately available on May 3 For example, he wrote that surveillance video from the bank shows the bank robber wore a glove on the left hand, a black hoodie with a Jack Skellington face on the front, an orange medical face mask, black sunglasses, black leggings and a large purse. (Jack Skellington is a skeleton character in the 1993 movie "The Nightmare Before Christmas.") The note read: "This is a robbery I have a gun and will shoot if any alarms or dye packs are enclosed Police had a description of the car the robber was driving and stopped it on State Road 200 near the Paddock Mall including an orange medical mask and a hoodie with the Jack Skellington face They also found a little more than $5,000 in cash in a purse The report doesn't mention discovering a gun Thagard's interviewThagard was taken to OPD and questioned by Pfeifer she told the detective she was in Ocala that morning to purchase clothes for a funeral She said she went to visit a male friend whose home is not far from the bank Thagard said when she went to the friend's residence there was a woman wearing the hoodie that officers later found in her vehicle She said her friend asked her to go with him somewhere She said she allowed the friend and the woman to use her vehicle Thagard said she remained at the friend's home Though there was clothing and other items inside her vehicle she noticed police cars were following her and did not know why Robber sentenced: Woman charged with robbing Marion County discount store sentenced to 10-year prison term Thagard continued to deny robbing the bank Thagard arrested her and she was transported to the county jail for booking (This story has been updated to accurately reflect the most current information) A woman accused of robbing an Ocala bank branch the morning of May 3 has been arrested by Ocala police The defendant has been identified as Christina Thagard She was arrested on a charge of robbery with a firearm and booked into the Marion County Jail Ocala police said they were called to the TD Bank branch at 2437 SE 17th St The report was that someone had robbed the bank Officers on scene were told that the robber entered the building and gave the teller a note indicating it was a holdup After receiving an undetermined amount of cash Police officials said the robber indicating having a firearm Authorities were given a description of the woman and a vehicle she entered The vehicle was stopped along State Road 200 by the Paddock Mall and the driver was detained and taken to the Ocala Police Department for questioning Prison: Bank robber sentenced to 20 years robbing a bank became a federal crime in 1934 the latest year for which full statistics are available the FBI reported 1,362 bank robberies nationwide 111 occurred on Saturdays and only 16 took place between the hours of 6 and 9 a.m If the legislation (HB 105) had passed and been signed into law racetrack owners would have been allowed to operate gambling devices without offering live horse racing This affects Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream Park Proponents said the measure was a way of ensuring long-term and sustainable solutions for thoroughbred racing But opponents said it would have crippled the Florida thoroughbred industry A press release issued by Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners Association's (FTBOA) CEO Lonny Powell thanked supporters for being with them throughout the process “The conclusion of Florida’s regular legislative session brings encouraging news for our beloved thoroughbred legacy and the thousands of Floridians who dedicate their livelihoods to this proud tradition," the release says and elected officials who joined our efforts — once again defended our industry from an ill-advised attempt at decoupling Powell also said: “We are deeply grateful to the many breeders and horsemen who traveled to Tallahassee to share their heartfelt opposition with lawmakers Your voices had a clear impact and made a real difference We also thank the lawmakers who championed our industry’s values and stood firm against proposals that threatened the foundation of Florida’s $3.24 billion thoroughbred industry." The release ended with: “As the Legislature continues to consider matters related to the state budget in the coming weeks we will remain firm in our opposition to any effort to weaken Florida’s thoroughbred industry We look forward to continuing our work with Florida’s leaders and stakeholders on long-term solutions that preserve and grow this vital industry for years to come." Decoupling: Evolving industries Local horse officials said if legislators had adopted the measure the law would have destroyed the horse racing industry established in the state and affected hundreds of employees juvenile thoroughbreds received their early training in Marion County and each year $180 million is generated from the Ocala Breeders’ Sales thoroughbred auctions How much did that house sell for? Deed transfers in Ocala/Marion: March 3-9, 2025Ocala Star-BannerThis is a list of deed transfers of $80,000 or more in Marion County The list is presented in alphabetical order by subdivision name — if there is a subdivision listed in the deed there is a subdivision listed but our system is not picking it up After the subdivision name comes the seller and buyer (presented last name first) and then the sales price Please direct any questions to calendar@starbanner.com  Deed transfers of $80,000 or more as recorded with the Clerk of the Circuit Court Autumn Glen: G2G Development LLC to DR Horton Inc Autumn Glen: DR Horton Inc to Shannon David Allen Bel Lago: Vacante Nancy Jane to McCrae Jarry R Belleair: Zachary James Estates LLC to Bode William Harry Iv Belleview: Devries Danial A to Stahl Jessica Belleview: Southstate Bank N A to Sbkbefl001 LLC Belleview Heights Estates: Alert Homes LLC to Giunta James B Belleview Heights Estates: Tenico Construction Corp to Conrad Christine Belleview Heights Estates: Synergy Builders LLC to Whitlow Daniel G Belleview Hills Estates: Lake Ivanhoe Properties LLC to Perez David Mendoza Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Rodriguez Lydia Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Whalen Brendan Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Howard Clifford Wayne Jr Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Crossen Kandi Elizabeth Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Kyser William Calesa Township: Colen Built Development LLCto Witfill Stacy Candler Hills: Holdman Peter Robert to Houston Steven Neal Candler Hills: Coleman Stephanie to Newman William C Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Holbach Timothy J Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Hall Margaret Ann Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Mccullough Mark Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Galindez Juan Candler Hills: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Alavi Hossein Cedar Hill: Gibbons Mary Jane to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Cedar Hill: Miller Gabriel Eli to Jones Michael W Cedar Hill: Bil Investment Properties LLC to Roland Henry T III Cedar Hill: Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC to Forney Robert Cherrywood Estates: Dalessandro Diane to Hackett Iris Circle Square Woods: Brown Russell to Pare Mark W Circle Square Woods: Cobos Humberto to Brown Ronald R Circle Square Woods: Deignan Catherine Hord to Mathews Ellen J Copperleaf: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Ferreira Anthony Copperleaf: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Torres Joel Alexander Dalton Woods: Williams Jeromy Joe to Thom Diane S Tr Dorchester Estates: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Bowler Gary Thomas Fort King Hammock: Synergy Yoga Inc to Twin Essence Estates LLC Forest Lake: Fisher Stephen J to Hartsuiker Berend Grand Park: Lennar Homes LLC to Gp Ocala Vi LLC Grand Park: Lennar Homes LLC to Gp Ocala VI LLC Greenfields: Home Discounters LLC to Trans Global Financial LLC Tr Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Grocki Joseph Michael Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Serrano Javier Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Esp Oc V LLC Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Esp O V LLC Heath Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Rodriguez Moises Manuel Cardona HeathBrook/Heath Brook: Britenstine Spencer to Duran Yamil A Heritage Hills: Silver Ray Investments LLC to Fida Properties LLC Hidden Lake: Carter Benjamin L to Lopez Margarita Del Carmen Valldejuli Hidden Lake: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Fuentes Dora A Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Coastal Homes & Remodeling Inc Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Neatwood Properties LLC Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Secure Built LLC Irish Acres: Irish Acres Acquisitions LLC to Atwood Stephen Michael Kingsland Ctry Ests Whisp Pines: Fiorentino Michael A to 5914 Sw 111Th Place LLC Kingsland Ctry Ests Whisp Pines: Gonzalez Ana to Manrique Jose Maria Kingsland Ctry Ests Whisp Pines: Chance Yolanda B to Chen Qiqi Lake Diamond: DR Horton Inc to Hotilal Parmeshwar Steven Lake Diamond: DR Horton Inc to Hallerberg Dylan Lake Tropicana Ranchettes: Biles Karen R to Sarty Marilyn Lake Weir Heights: Vanderbilt Mortgage & Finance Inc to Stuckey Mycalah Lake Weir Heights: Relyance Reliable Homes & More LLC to Carrier William Lake Weir Shores: Investor Nation Residential Capital LLC to De Bien Alfredo C Land O Lakes Estates: Trent Marvin D to Trent Elizabeth Elaine Laurel Commons: DR Horton Inc to Erickson Elias Jacob Laurel Commons: DR Horton Inc to Eskandar Ossama Gerges Legendary Trails: Center State Construction Inc to Suydam Kimblery Little Lake Weir: Adams Peter to Creech Charles S Ii Little Lake Weir Subdivision: Laclair Donald E to Costa Arsenio Jr Little Lake Weir Subdivision: Hall Robert K to Tucker Philip Charles Lk Diamond/Lk Diamond Golf & Ctry Club: Jimenez Manuel D to Edwards Sheffield Iii Longleaf Ridge: Lisec Garry to Lisec Garry Longleaf Ridge: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Hughes Jeffrey A Majestic Oaks: Smith Mary P to Depowski Sharon J Marion County: Morrison Harke April Maxine to Martinez Ivan Colon Marion County: McClanahan Bruce to Turner Kuettel Debra Marion County: Brown Joe C Tr to Ramirez Maria Johana Marion County: North Trust LLC to East Marion Utilites LLC Marion County: Hart Raleigh to Fuhs Allan E Marion County: Holman Gregory D to Everett John P Tr Marion County: Brown Joe C to Ramirez Maria Johanna Marion County: Fulk David Lee to Snyder Alice M Marion County: Gonzalez Quevedo Yvonne to Cardosa Medina Maria Teresa Marion County: Brennan Francis X III to Appugliese Michael Marion County: Cvigne Farms Limited to Vigne Thomas Joseph Marion County: American Properties & Management Group LLC to 520 Ne 82Nd Terrace LLC Marion County: Adams Lance V to Stidham Ashley Testa Marion County: Johnson Daniel Duane to North Young Guanaco Holding Corp Inc Marion County: Kurtz Michael J to Davidson Linda Marion County: Conway Pamela D to C&C Real Estate International LLC Marion County: Kuszlyk Jeanette to Rodriguez Jennifer Marion County: Prasad Dial to A&A Prasad LLC Marion County: Vigne Dawnita Lee to Vigne Dawnita Lee Marion County: Thorne Robert L III to Bryll Cheryl Lei Marion County: D&H Huracan Protection Dervice Corp to Hollifield Mark Marion County: Opendoor Property Trust I to Avellan Melina S Marion County: Brooks Cris Ann to Persad Deokie Marion County: Groff Thomas to Calderon Carlos A Marion County: Greater Equity LLC to Maher Brendan Marion County: Atwell James R Sr to J Byrd Properties 1919 LLC Marion County: Johnson Dillon to Crj Central Florida Investments LLC Marion County: Jane H Craig Declaration Of Trust to Chaffin Ethen I Marion County: Fiduciary Trust Services LLC to Bellows Chase Marion County: Latham Jesse F to Kohlhapp Jeffrey Marion County: Bonitto Maryalexa to Yorgo Development LLC Marion County: Keck James to Comegys Jake Peterson Marion County: Allard Steven Michael to Hill Jeffrey E Tr Marion County: Edwards Barbara Jean to Sacco John Anthony Marion County: Forest Properties South LLC to Celcer Gary Marion County: Drew Kenneth P to Dweck Joseph V Marion County: Cvigne Farms Limited to Vigne Family LLC Marion County: Stenson Michael B to Anderson Robert W Marion County: Maharaj Chandra to Eaton Robert Marion County: Hannon Investments LLC to Spark Assets LLC Marion County: Heine Shelly to Bellamy Theresa Marion County: Bontrager Chad Eric to Phillips Justin Marion County: Jennings Joshua C to Jennings Jereme C Marion County: Southstate Bank Na to Sbkocfl003 LLC Marion County: Southstate Bank N A to Sbkocfl002 LLC Marion County: Spires 27 LLC to Semoj 20 LLC Marion County: Siemer Michael A C to Marr Scott A Tr Marion Landing: Boehm Mike Steven to Brecht Brian P Marion Landing: Markowski Gloria C to Caminiti Ronald Marion Landing: Carso Robert G to Pittsinger Dean Marion Oaks: Abk Properties Investment LLC to A & Y Construction & Remodeling LLC Marion Oaks: Carrion Rafael Jr to DR Horton Inc Marion Oaks: Kubrusly & Basso Development LLC to Jzj Consulting LLC Marion Oaks: Kubrusly & Basso Development LLC to Abpar Orlando LLC Marion Oaks: Kubrusly & Basso Development LLC to Solida I Real Estate Lp Marion Oaks: Eskridge Mary to Perez Kristopher Marion Oaks: Florida Land LLC to Carballea Karly Marion Oaks: Teamwork Construction LLC to Siracuza Pedro Jr Marion Oaks: Berroa Cesar B to Cruz Jorge Luis Garcia Marion Oaks: Ingram Michael Phillip to Coffey Cherry Marion Oaks: Greenwood Paul to Rosales Edy Marion Oaks: Florida Land LLC to Wallace Tyler Marion Oaks: B2G Vesta Partners LLC to Eskridge Mary Marie Marion Oaks: B2G Leo Partners LLC to Desormes Leonel Marion Oaks: Sfr Owner Ml Borrower LLC to Perez Frank Alberto Montenegro Marion Oaks: DR Horton Inc to Perez Angelo Marion Oaks: Garp 001 LLC to Ramsamooj Sherry Marion Oaks: Homeland Everest Investments LLC to Alemany Wanda I Marion Oaks: K Hovnanian Aspire At Marion Oaks LLC to Dahl Christina Marie Lenyk Marion Oaks: Wmg Construction & Incorporation LLC to Davydov Ilia Marion Oaks: Rm828 LLC to Palma Aaron De La Cruz Marion Oaks: Esperanza Real Estate LLC to Rivero Carlos Marion Oaks: Gois America LLC to Vega Lisa Marion Oaks: DR Horton Inc to Amaya Wilfredo Palucho Marion Oaks: K Hovnanian Aspire At Marion Oaks LLC to Perez Jose Miguel Marion Oaks: Tomorrowland Homes LLC to Lee Flavia Marion Oaks: Tomorrowland Development LLC to Leyva Angel Marion Oaks: Estela Specs 7 LLC to Douglas Josaida Marion Oaks: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Padilla Elvin Antonio Marion Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Garcia Garcia Martha Lucia Marion Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Arroyo Marie Theresa Marion Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Petenbrink Mason Jon Marion Ranch: Freedom Commons Development LLC to Lennar Homes LLC Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Briceno Carlos Eduardo Jauregui Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Hernandez Javier Bomnin Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Raju Vaishnavi Malaiyapaati Ragunatha Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Runyon Hope Ann Millwood Estates: Lennar Homes LLC to Enacarscillo Christopher Oak Hammock Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Thomas Jeanille Patrice Oak Hammock Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Heimbach Sarah Danielle Oak Hammock Preserve: Lennar Homes LLC to Amani Shaima Oak Run: Bancroft Carrie Lynn to Bancroft Carrie Lynn Oak Run: Bancroft Mark Hillard to Bancroft Mark Hillard Oak Run: Keigwin Margaret A to Kleberg Eric R Oak Run: Brennan Kathleen A to Weber Victor Lynn Oak Run: Kushner Charlotte R Est to Yanders Mark Allen Oak Run: Hecht Betty Kay to Maurette Louis Oak Run Neighborhood: Lovasz Karoly to Goodrow Victor James Oak Run Neighborhood: Battaglio John L to Casler Sean T Ocala Crossings South: DR Horton Inc to Rivera Harold Rivera Ocala Park Estates: Fleming Barbara Est to Rattley Demetra Ocala Park Estates: Jacobs Brian R to Thompson Michael A Ocala Park Estates: Worldwide Alliance LLC to Watters Nathaniel Ocala Park Estates,4755 LLC to Vicens Jan Michael Ocala Preserve: DR Horton Inc to Bradham Jarhett Lee Ocala Preserve: Batista Susan Denise to Equestrian Retreat LLC Ocala Preserve: Sh Aa Development LLC to Hrubesch Robert Stephen Ocala Preserve: Forestar Usa Real Estate Group Inc to Sh Aa Development LLC Ocala Thoroughbred Acres: Carmona Peter Gerena to Leyva Eduardo Barroso Ocala Waterway Estates: Rodmar Investments LLC to Questad Mark Ocala Waterway Estates: Estela Specs 7 LLC to Sanchez Carlos On Top of the World: Hsu Henry to Livingston Don On Top of the World: Maugherman Lynn Frederick to Schiller Janice Lynn On Top of the World Ctrl Replat: Schnappauf Scott Francis to Magurk Mona Orange Blossom Hills: Velazquez Crystal Duran to Investway Group Of Florida Corp Orange Blossom Hills: Rule Patricia L to Garritan Gary Orange Blossom Hills: Ender19 LLC to Stennett Michael T Orange Lake: Mcfarland Geraldine to Harnishfeger Ralph Donald Jr Palm Cay: Figueroa Jose to Brenna Joseph A Pinehurst: Stutz Steven Dwain to Miller Jeremy Pine Oak Estates: Ocala R E Ventures LLC to Beaver Bruce Ronald Pine Run Estates: Maldonado Efrain S Jr to Salyers Sandra Pine Run Estates: Krutsinger Richard Dean to Johnson Terri A Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Lorenzo Nicholas Lawrence Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Cardona Ivan Andres Hernandez Pioneer Ranch: Pulte Home Company LLC to Manzano Quincy Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Gp Ocala Vi LLC Pioneer Ranch: Lennar Homes LLC to Mccoy Jenny Rebecca Quail Meadow: Berendsohn Guiomar to Molter Wayne Karl Rainbow Acres: Jw Properties & Investments Fl LLC to Iacono Susan Rainbow Lakes Estates: Apex Housing Investment Solutions LLC to Lapole Troy Rainbow Lakes Estates: Drc24 LLC to Mccurdy Otis Rainbow Lakes Estates: Bellot Frank M to Crane Steven R Rainbow Lakes Estates: Bwc Constructing & Contracting Inc to Farrell Kenneth G Rainbow Lakes Estates: Mathis Properties LLC to Schuman Edmund Rainbow Lakes Estates: New Quality Enterprise LLC to Jane Desforges Trust Rainbow Lakes Estates: Caudill Jack to Gama David Rainbow Park: Lower Right Construction LLC to Scaglione Ariel Maria Rainbow Park: H Stuart Investments LLC to Melendez Nilsa Diaz Rainbow Park: Vonner Brittany T to Garcia Jeyson Elicier Rainbow Springs Ctry Club Ests: Rossi Michael to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Rainbow Springs Ctry Club Ests: Robertson Daniel to Chirichiello Mark Rainbow Springs Ctry Club Ests: Ramos Petrona to Hemingway Melanie Kathryn Rolling Hills: Your Home Source LLC to Saunders Noel D Rolling Hills: Newmark Old Mills Venture LLC to Espino Margarita Rolling Hills: Dream Living Homes LLC to Sampedro Kevin Rolling Hills: Mortgage Solutions & Investment Properties LLC to Altomare Brian Thomas Rolling Hills: Anchorapple LLC to Mcdonough Edith Rolling Hills: Labianca Gail to Carreau Evelyne Tr Rolling Ranch Estates: Marine Connection LLC to Calzadilla Odalmis Cardenas Rolling Ranch Estates: Crouch Homes LLC to Bartlett Maria Fernanda Clair Marlene Tr to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Saddle Hill: Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC to Warren Doris Dean Sheri Oaks: Christine Ploettner to Philip Salari Silver Meadows: Ramm Carl J to Johnson Grace Silver Run Forest: Sumner Land Holdings LLC to Vardis Miriam V Silver Springs: Kennel Jamie to Clark Carilla Silver Springs: Hedick Holdings LLC to Kennel Kevin Silver Springs: Zaragoza Jessica to Wilhite Jamie Lee Silver Springs: Percival Denise Renee to Gravatt Megan Silver Springs: Toro Luis Alfredo to Hbs Construction Inc Silver Springs: Mccracken Janet to Porter Jason Silver Springs: First Realty Solutions Inc to Vazquez Carlos Silver Springs Shores: Bucia Brandon to William Perrywinkle Property Holdings LLC Silver Springs Shores: Kitrosser Edward W to Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC Silver Springs Shores: Volpe Adam C to Investments Legacy Group LLC Silver Springs Shores: Florida 635 LLC to Focus Homes LLC Of Florida Silver Springs Shores: Investments Legacy Group LLC to Lamar Flipping LLC Silver Springs Shores: Hayes Michael H to Stamper Tara Lee Silver Springs Shores: Betancourt Kasandra to Teamwork Construction LLC Silver Springs Shores: Mohammed Sharon to Casa Craft By Libranv LLC Silver Springs Shores: Rapalo Levi to Huntsberry Leila Silver Springs Shores: Mehta Falguni to Chandler Marcus Ii Ii Silver Springs Shores: Elder Planning Income Concepts LLC to Edwards Ruth S Silver Springs Shores: Evaristo Flores LLC to Timeright Developement LLC Silver Springs Shores: Costa Arsenio Jr to Cuevas Adniel Soler Silver Springs Shores: Oliva Melvin to Muniz Melissa Catherine Silver Springs Shores: Richardson Jackie Linn to Borgese Lisa Marie Silver Springs Shores: Armstrong Family Investments LLC to Ellison Cleveland E Jr Silver Springs Shores: Harrington Alyse to Pangborn Jonathan Silver Springs Shores: Aldana Contracting LLC to Groom Lainey N Silver Springs Shores: Amm Properties Of Ocala LLC to Pasternak Jerry Silver Springs Shores: Southern Impression Homes LLC to East Ltr LLC Silver Springs Shores: Star 1017 LLC to Jaynes Richard Jr Silver Springs Shores: Amm Properties Of Ocala LLC to Semans Auriana Silver Springs Shores: Aitana Property LLC to Zamora Vanessa Veronica Silver Springs Shores: Jen Homes LLC to Trail Harvey Kenesha Silver Springs Shores: Whitlow Daniel to Kuettel Trent W Silver Springs Shores: Focus Homes LLC Of Florida to Rodriguez Angel Luis Silver Springs Shores: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Delfosse Aaron Matthew Silver Springs Shores: Adams Homes Of Northwest Florida Inc to Matos Cynthia Silver Springs Shores: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Dominguez Delio Silver Springs Shores: Tps Buisness Services LLC to Brownings Aluminum & Screen Repair LLC Spruce Creek Country Club: Dorsey Terrence W to Hatfield Lorrie Spruce Creek Country Club: Brown Robert L to Bryant Gary H Tr Spruce Creek Golf & Country Club: Nichols Claire Elizabeth to Nichols Franca Spruce Creek Golf & Country Club: Austin Robert F to Galle Lucy S Spruce Creek South: Swigert Brett L to Gessel Thomas Scott Spruce Creek South: Keating Mary R to Waldrop Harold C Spruce Creek South: Schuff Robert C to Krull Glenn Spruce Creek South: Whitehill Vicky Lynn to Andrews Patricia Spruce Creek South: Rainey Robert W to Simonton Timothy D Stone Creek by Del Webb: Pulte Home Company LLC to Collett Cynthia Anne Stone Creek by Del Webb: Pulte Home Company LLC to Heiland Gilbert Emil Stone Creek by Del Webb: Gurbisz Diane to Houpt Frank Stone Creek by Del Webb: Pulte Home Company LLC to Jones Keith L Stonecrest: Reed Dolores to Marst Properties LLC Stonecrest: Lefkowitz Bonnie E to Miller Anje Anjanette Stonecrest: Wagner Roderick to Spires John Stonecrest: Wedemeyer Donna M to Martin Constance Comery Tr Stonecrest: Forrest Lewis E to 12006 Summerfield LLC Stonecrest: Higgins Thomas E to Harriman Aaron R Summercrest: Pagaya Smartresi F1 Fund Property Owner Iv LLC to Grant Regina Summercrest: Opendoor Property Trust I to Cook Chase C Summercrest: Clayton Properties Group Inc to Juan Carlos Puentes Revocable Trust Summerglen/Summer Glen: Masse Michael G to Van Gorp Paul D Sunset Hills: DR Horton Inc to Nguyen Anh Thy Quoc Sunset Hills: DR Horton Inc to Fernandez Talavera Luis Manuel Tropicana Village: Benedetto Lois to Kramer William E Jr Villages of Marion: Yaeger Scott J to Yaeger Julia Tr Villages of Marion: Duncan Mark R to Brower Carla Elizabeth Villages of Marion: 7770 Glen Leven LLC to Herron Robb W Villages of Marion: Hansen Renee to Lintvedt Carol Marie Villages of Marion: Sheets Larry A to Albright Jonathon Frank West End Ocala: D&S Development LLC to Strossner Catherine West Oak: Wjhfl LLC to Liranzo Jennifer Sharlene Bernal Weybourne Landing: Trexler Martin C to Bernard Randall R Weybourne Landing: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Rubin Robert Weybourne Landing: On Top Of The World Communities LLC to Frassetti Edward A Woodfields: Stine James W to Mpr Properties 3 LLC Woods & Lakes: Lapcinski Joseph P to Drawver Lorraine C Woods & Meadows: Us Bank Trust Na Tr to Ingraham Casandra L Wynchase Townhomes: Combs Matthew to Mdc Rental Properties LLC Wynchase Townhomes: Lam Homes LLC to Ajax Real State Euskadi LLC Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty had early training at Ocala's Bridlewood FarmOcala Star-BannerThe Kentucky Derby winner, Sovereignty, was among the horses in the race that had Ocala/Marion County connections. Sovereignty completed early training at Bridlewood Farm in Ocala according to the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association (FTBOA.) All about Sovereignty: Sovereignty trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse The full list: Which Kentucky Derby 2025 horses have Ocala or Marion County connections? Journalism is owned in partnership with Bridlewood and received early training there All about Journalism: Journalism trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse For full coverage of the Kentucky Derby and Sovereignty's victory, check the Louisville Courier Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network The 150-acre wildfire burning in the Ocala National Forest was 75% contained as of midday May 3 a wildlife mitigation specialist with the Florida Forest Service She said there's still smoke in the area and crews remain at the scene plowing lines and doing their best to contain the fire more than 50 people have been involved in fighting this fire since it started the afternoon of May 2 Marion County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service Bond urged people to stay away from the area generally described as State Road 40 East near County Road 314 Local fire data Check out the Star-Banner's data page According to a meteorologist from the National Weather Service's Jacksonville office there's a 30% chance of rain forecast for May 3 the weatherman said the chance of rain increases to 50% to 60% the next rainfall opportunity is some time later in the week Marion County Sheriff's Office officials who are assisting first responders said they're monitoring the situation and will be on hand if needed an evacuation order was issued for parts of northeast Marion County as the 150-acre fire spread in the Ocala National Forest Authorities temporarily closed CR 314 between Southeast First Road and SR 40 More fire coverage: Dry conditions raise risk of fire Officials had created a reunification area for those told to leave It was the Winn Dixie at 15912 SR 40 East in Silver Springs A sheriff's office spokesman at the scene Friday night said no one showed up Three other fires in the forest — one in Lynne one near Lake Charles and a third at Bombing Range 11 — were under control as of May 3 "The area remains very dry with relative humidities in the 30s to low 40% There is a chance of thunderstorms this afternoon and tomorrow like pile burns," the federal agency wrote in a May 3 Facebook post "There is a burn ban in place for Lake County and Marion County is under a voluntary do not burn request Please be extremely careful with any potential ignition source." UPDATE: Evacuation order lifted | Crews battle fire in Ocala National ForestOcala Star-Banner(This story was updated to accurately reflect the most current information.) May 2 the evacuation order was lifted and all roads are open according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office A 150-acre fire that started the afternoon of May 2 in the Ocala National Forest has led to an evacuation order for part of northeast Marion County Road 314 between Southeast First Road and State Road 40 has been temporarily closed due to the fire according to a Facebook post from the Marion County Sheriff's Office An evacuation order was issued about 7:12 p.m., according to a Facebook post from the U.S. Forest Service. The Reverse 911/Alert Marion system was activated to notify those who need to evacuate Specific details on which areas need to evacuate were not immediately provided on social media The reunification area will be the Winn Dixie at 15912 SR 40 East in Silver Springs Fire details: Check out the Star-Banner's data center Forest Service are battling the blaze with engines that agency brought two tankers from Lake City; by 9 p.m the Florida Department of Transportation and the Marion County Sheriff's Office were cautioning drivers in the Ocala National Forest to be aware of possible visibility reductions resulting from wildfires "This dangerous combination of smoke and fog (known as super fog)" may affect visibility especially during overnight and early morning hours according to a sheriff's office Facebook post According to the Star-Banner's read of official reports, there have been several wildfires burning in the forest in recent days One is a 5-acre fire in Lynne that started on April 28 this fire is off Northeast 10th Street Road north of State Road 40 and Waldena Lake "While only 5 acres, the Lynn Fire continues to persist," the forest service reported in a May 1 Facebook post. "Deep layers of duff buildup This has produced a fog/ smoke mixture in the mornings that is impacting SR 40 "Crews continue to address these lingering areas with aviation and hand work (digging,)" the post continues further noting that on April 30 a helicopter "dropped several thousand gallons of water in support of ground crews." Related coverage: 82% of Florida experiencing drought conditions. See worst areas and whether rain expected soon A second fire was a 19-acre blaze in the Lake Charles area that also started on April 28 A 35-acre fire started April 23 in part of the bombing range in the forest "There are currently three fires in the area of the Ocala National Forest," the Florida Highway Patrol reported at 8:30 p.m "Motorists are advised to use extreme caution if traveling on State Road 40 and County Road 314 State Road 40 and NE 131st Avenue and State Road 40 and SE 170th Avenue." the FHP issued another advisory for a different part of Marion: "Motorists are urged to use caution driving in the area of U.S 301 and (Southeast) 135th Street due to a 14-acre fire," that advisory reads "There may be times of limited visibility due to smoke Motorist are reminded to use low beams when traveling through areas of smoke and fog and to reduce speed." A statewide issue"More than 82% of Florida is suffering from drought conditions ranging from moderate to extreme, according to NOAA's National Integrated Drought Information System," the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida reported the morning of May 2 East Marion County is in the "extreme drought" category According to the news network, 102 wildfires were burning statewide as of May 2. Twenty-three counties have some form of burn ban in place; that does not include Marion, which enacted a voluntary ban on April 17. Cheryl McCloud of USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida contributed In her first act as Marion County Public Schools Interim Superintendent, Danielle Brewer has asked that Ben Whitehouse serve as deputy superintendent The news was made public in a May 2 press release issued by school officials The appointment must be approved by the school board which earlier this week unanimously selected Brewer for the interim role Brewer and present Superintendent Diane Gullett will work side-by-side running the district until July 11 the district has not had a deputy superintendent since Margarete Talbert-Irving left the post late last year the district has set aside $139,919 for the job About Ben WhitehouseWhitehouse attended Marion County Public Schools: Madison Street Academy Whitehouse has a bachelor's degree and master's degree from the University of Florida and recently was inducted into the National Louis University Alumni Hall of Fame He also earned his educational specialist degree in educational leadership there Whitehouse's career began at West Port Middle and High School He also was an assistant principal of discipline Since 2023 he has been director of assessment accountability and research at the district level It's official: Danielle Brewer chosen as interim superintendent for Marion County Public Schools He serves on the board of directors for CareerSource Citrus-Levy-Marion Broadway Off-Broadway Off-Off Broadway Cabaret Dance Opera Classical Music Nashville Minneapolis / St. Paul Connecticut Atlanta Chicago Los Angeles WEST END UK Regional Canada Australia / New Zealand Europe Asia Latin America Africa / Middle East TV/Movies Music The SpongeBob Musical is now playing at Ocala Civic Theatre, running through May 18. Check out all new photos from the show below! Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants! And the happy-go-lucky SpongeBob (Christian Gonzales) – absorbent and yellow and porous is he – is surrounded by lots of other colorful characters in the city of Bikini Bottom, among the coral reefs of the Pacific Ocean. There’s his BFF, Patrick Star (Isiah Blount), a sweet but dim-witted starfish who lives under a nearby rock, and the grumpy but lovable octopus Squidward Q. Tentacles (Cody Novotny). And of course, there’s SpongeBob’s beloved pet snail, Gary (Walter Paul Oathout). SpongeBob and Squidward work at the Krusty Krab, a popular fast-food restaurant beloved for its Krabby Patties and owned by greedy crab Eugene Krabs (Antony Smith). His bratty teenage whale-daughter Pearl (Caylinn Mosblech) is obsessed with the band The Electric Skates (Cristian A. Cardoso, Geovanni Jimenez, Josiah Santiago). Mr. Krabs is also in a relationship with Mrs. Puff (Alexis Trimboli), a pufferfish. His arch-rival, the equally greedy Sheldon J. Plankton (Xavier Rosado), runs the much less successful Chum Bucket across the street and is married to a computer named Karen (Courtney Curtis). There’s also Larry the Lobster (Cristian A. Cardoso), the cranky fish Old Man Jenkins (Josiah Santiago), and a cult of devoted sardines (Janéa King, Tara Oathout, Josiah Santiago). On the waves above, Patchy the Pirate (Geovanni Jimenez) and his mates provide plenty of nautical nonsense. A French narrator (James Ray Taylor III) introduces us to this undersea world, while a Foley Artist Fish (Alexa Hall) creates all of the imaginative sound effects. Some of the inhabitants of Bikini Bottom are non-native species – namely Sandy Cheeks (La’Nya Solomon), a scientist squirrel from Texas who’s there on a research project. And it’s a good thing, too, because reporter Perch Perkins (Hunter Leary) soon alerts the town to the terrible news that a massive volcano, Mount Humongous, is due to erupt and destroy their home! Naturally, everyone from the mayor (Adrienne Hebert) to the citizens of Bikini Bottom (Benjamin Burnette, Crystal Catalina, Janéa King, Adrianah Lee, Tara Oathout, Saber Ramos, Daniel Roscoe) is deeply alarmed. SpongeBob and friends realize that everyone must swim together to save the day when the going gets tough – but how? Brimming over with irresistible songs, this hilarious, family-friendly musical based on the beloved animated series is a bright delight for all ages. Ride the wave for the best day ever! Orlando Sings will present the fourth annual Orlando Sings Choral Festival, a three-concert celebration of the human spirit through powerful choral storytelling. The SpongeBob Musical is now playing at Ocala Civic Theatre, running through May 18. Check out all new photos from the show and learn more about the production here! Montverde Academy's New Play Festival opened last night which features the premieres of 'Parallel Lil' by Crystal Skillman directed by David Ian Lee and 'Carl' by Aidan Fracker directed by Dean Bell as part of their Black Box Series. Check out photos here. Naughty Bits: A Modest Proposal for Banning Shakespeare, HudsonWerks Theater exposes the Bard's bawdiest bits in a whip-smart, zany satire landing at the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival. function closestickysocial(){document.getElementById("foxsocial").style.display="none";}@media(max-width:1024px){.most-popular,.video-row{display:block;margin-top:25px}}Videos and exclusive discounts on tickets to your favorite shows © 2025 - Copyright Wisdom Digital Media, all rights reserved. Privacy Policy Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInOCALA (WCJB) - A small business in Ocala is booming and helping keep the equine industry running We’ll show you how a business owner is solving a problem horse trainers have dealt with for a long time in the Weekly Buzz RELATED: Ocala CEP highlights Dollar Tree distribution center Click here to subscribe to our newsletter This website is unavailable in your location It appears you are attempting to access this website from a country outside of the United States therefore access cannot be granted at this time Kid Rock, Nickelback and more: Your guide to Rock the Country Ocala 2025 concert, May 9-10Ocala Star-BannerThe two-day Rock the Country concert will be held in Ocala on May 9 and 10. Here's what you need to know. The source of this information is https://rockthecountry.com/ocala-fl/ That website also has much more information about the festival check the website and social media for the most up-to-date information Where will Rock the Country Ocala 2025 be held?At the Florida Horse Park, 11008 S ranging from a day pass for May 9 ($99.99) to more expensive VIP passes and two-day passes There also are packages and bundles for tickets Full details at https://rockthecountry.com/ocala-fl/ Parking opens at noon both days and gates open at 2 p.m The first acts are scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m Can I use cash at Rock the Country Ocala 2025?No Cash will be accepted for day-of-show parking What can guests NOT bring in to Rock the Country Ocala 2025?Again The website also says: "For the safety and security of our event our festival team has the right to deem any other items not listed unfit or unsafe inside the festival." Check ocala.com during the festival for photos All of our photos from the 2024 concert can be seen here. The Kentucky Derby will be held May 3 at Churchill Downs in Kentucky. As usual, multiple horses in the field have Ocala or Marion County connections Has any horse with Marion County ties won the Kentucky Derby?Yes. To name two: In 2024, Mystik Dan which was trained at Silverleaf Hills Training Center In 2022, Rich Strike, a late entrant to the derby field He had his early training at Mayberry Farm in Ocala Mark Casse, who has Casse Training Center in Ocala calls himself "an Ocala boy" who moved to the area when he was 5 Sandman is the most expensive horse in the field It sold for $1.2 million at the 2024 Ocala Breeders' Sales March 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale When asked about the high expectations for Sandman He pointed to Sandman winning the Arkansas Derby He said being victorious in the one of the derby prep races has increased Sandman's value 2024 Derby winner: Kentucky Derby 2024 winner Mystik Dan was trained at Marion County center The trainer said Sandman's value was high because of his impeccable pedigree by Tapit out of Distorted Music by Distorted Humor A two-vehicle crash in southeast Marion County on April 30 killed one person County Road 42 and Southeast 89th Terrace in Summerfield Troopers said a Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck was eastbound on CR 42 in the left-turn lane was westbound on CR 42 in the outside lane approaching 89th Terrace The rider laid the bike down and the man and the bike collided with the truck's right side FHP officials said the motorcycle rider was transported to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital Authorities said it was shortly after 3 p.m Officials said the victim was pronounced deceased at 4:51 p.m Officials said the pickup driver had left a VA medical facility and was on his way to Bushnell It's unknown where the motorcycle rider was headed Motorcycle death: Two-vehicle crash in Weirsdale kills motorcyclist, 74, on April 26 The death was the second motorcycle fatality in the past few days. On April 26 an elderly woman driving a Hyundai Tucson was attempting to cross the road when her vehicle struck a 74-year-old man riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle The crash occurred at Southeast Harbor Road and County Road 25 NeoequosReceived early training at Susan Montanye’s SBM Training and Sales in Ocala More about Neoequos: Neoequos trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Owned in partnership with Bridlewood Farm in Ocala; also received early training there More about Journalism: Journalism trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Related news: Journalism jockey Umberto Rispoli endures whirlwind weekend ahead of Kentucky Derby 2025 SandmanEarly training from Tom McCrocklin of Ocala; now trained by Ocala's Mark Casse More about Sandman: Sandman trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Early training at Bridlewood Farm in Ocala More about Sovereignty: Sovereignty trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Early training at Rice Family’s Woodside Ranch in Fort McCoy More about American Promise: American Promise trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Burnham SquareEarly training at Roy Lerman’s Lambholm South in Ocala More about Burnham Square: Burnham Square trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Citizen BullEarly training at Eddie Woods Stable in Ocala More about Citizen Bull: Citizen Bull trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse More about East Avenue: East Avenue trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Early training from Karl Keegan’s Lucan Bloodstock based at Oak Ridge Training Center in Morriston More about Grande: Grande trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Early training at Eddie Woods Stable in Ocala More about Rodriguez: Rodriguez trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse Early training at Ken McPeek’s Silverleaf Hills Training Center in Summerfield More about Render Judgment Render Judgment trainer, jockey, owner and more to know about 2025 Kentucky Derby horse When is the Kentucky Derby?Which horse is the favorite? Kentucky Derby 2025 betting odds, favorites, post positions and free picks Mostly sunny and a high of 70 degrees. (This story was updated to add new information) MARION COUNTY American Promise will be taking center stage at the Kentucky Derby We start these young horses the right way and let them get a good foundation in their early days.” American Promise got to start training in Ocala at Woodside Ranch “They have to be confident with a rider getting on They have to get confidence with other horses in different training exercises you have to do to prepare them you’re trying to get them fit mentally,” Holley Rice have been training horses at Woodside Ranch for over 30 years They’ve trained several horses for the Kentucky Derby Nine of the 21 horses in the Derby have ties to Marion County which is partially owned by Bridlewood Farms It’s what Ocala and Marion County are all about We are at the early prep center for a great percentage of the thoroughbreds to go off to the races particularly the horses in the major races,” Bryan stated The Rices are hoping to keep their industry strong in the area for years to come OCALA, Fla. – A 36-year-old Ocala man was killed Wednesday afternoon in a motorcycle crash on County Road 42 in Marion County The FHP said a pickup truck driven by a 66-year-old Tennessee man was attempting to make a U-turn at the intersection and the motorcyclist tried to stop but laid his bike down and collided with the pickup The motorcyclist was taken to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and was pronounced dead Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009 When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby AdventHealth Ocala has been awarded an “A” Hospital Safety Grade for the fifth consecutive time byThe Leapfrog Group “We are thrilled and honored to receive this ‘A’ grade for the fifth time in a row It shows just how hard our exceptional team members are working every day to keep our patients and visitors safe,” AdventHealth Ocala President and CEO Erika Skula said patients and visitors is of the utmost importance to AdventHealth and we are very appreciative for the trust our community has placed in our hospital as we work to deliver exceptional The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program focused exclusively on preventable medical errors injuries and infections that can lead to harm or even death in the fall and spring.“Achieving an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade reflects enormous dedication to patient safety,” said Leah Binder “I extend my congratulations to AdventHealth Ocala staff and volunteers for creating a culture where patients come first.” Our website uses cookies. Please review our privacy policy to find out more about the cookies we use Browsing our website means you accept these terms You can use the database to search by county or by restaurant name Florida's restaurant owners are not required to post restaurant inspection results where guests can see them For a complete list of local restaurant inspections, including violations not requiring warnings or administrative action, visit our Marion County restaurant inspections site Here's the breakdown for recent health inspections in Marion County follow-up inspections may not be included here Disclaimer: The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation describes an inspection report as a 'snapshot' of conditions present at the time of the inspection an establishment may have fewer or more violations than noted in their most recent inspection An inspection conducted on any given day may not be representative of the overall For full restaurant inspection details, visit our Marion County restaurant inspection site These restaurants met all standards during their April 21-27 inspections and no violations were found ** Restaurants that failed an inspection and aced a follow-up inspection in the same week Follow-Up Inspection Required: Violations require further review but are not an immediate threat to the public Checkers #63252701 SW College Rd China King15924 E Dulce Jesus Mio Ocala618 - 620 S Francesco's Ristorante16770 S Pei Wei Express or Mandarin Express3100 SW College Rd Tom's Cuban on The Go1800 SW County Road 484 Unit B Routine regulation and inspection of restaurants is conducted by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation The Department of Health is responsible for investigation and control of food-borne illness outbreaks associated with all food establishments If you see abuses of state standards, report them and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation will send inspectors. Call the Florida DBPR at 850-487-1395 or report a restaurant for health violations online Get the whole story at our restaurant inspection database Basic violations are those considered against best practices A warning is issued after an inspector documents violations that must be corrected by a certain date or within a specified number of days from receipt of the inspection report An administrative complaint is a form of legal action taken by the division a pattern of repeat violations or existence of serious conditions that warrant immediate action may result in the division initiating an administrative complaint against the establishment Says the division website: "Correcting the violations is important but penalties may still result from violations corrected after the warning time was over." An emergency order — when a restaurant is closed by the inspector — is based on an immediate threat to the public the Division of Hotels and Restaurants director has determined that the establishment must stop doing business and any division license is suspended to protect health A 24-hour call-back inspection will be performed after an emergency closure or suspension of license According to Marion County prosecutors, the youngest of three defendants charged in connection with the murders of three teenagers in 2023 was the youngest person to be indicted as an adult in this area was charged with first-degree murder with a firearm robbery with a firearm and tampering with evidence whose name is being withheld by the Star-Banner because of his age picked up a charge of battery by a person in a detention facility detectives learned that several hours before the killings later identified as Robert Le'Andrew Robinson were connected to a reported shooting and robbery that almost resulted in a death prosecutors later dropped that case against him wearing jail-issue uniform of brown top and red pants to change his plea in front of Circuit Judge Robert Hodges the teen entered a guilty plea to all charges his minimum sentence is 40 years behind bars he's scheduled for a review after 25 years for the murder and 20 years for the robbery which means the judge will have the final say on sentencing Representing the state at the hearing were Assistant State Attorneys Rich Buxman and Toby Hunt the teen has agreed to testify truthfully at any hearing or trials against his two co-defendants: Robinson and Tahj Demarcus Brewton The judge carefully explained each step of the process to the teen the teen told the judge he understood and was willing to move forward with his guilty plea The sentence was deferred by the judge until a later date The trials for the co-defendants may be held this summer presently being held at the county jail and separated from the adults Family and friends of the victims were present in court and sat with each other There was no one in the courtroom for the teen Marion County Sheriff's deputies said in late March 2023 they were called to Forest Lakes Park on Southeast 183rd Avenue Road because a body was discovered on the side of the road Law enforcement officials said the victim had been shot later identified as 16-year-old Layla Silvernail The names of the two teens later found by deputies were not released due to Marsy's Law which allows victims and their families to prevent release of the names of crime victims Detectives said the victims and the accused killers were in a vehicle when the shootings happened and the other two other juveniles — Robinson In May 2023 the defendants were indicted on murder charges Robinson also is charged with two counts of robbery with a firearm and one count of evidence tampering Robinson was scheduled to accept the state's offer of five years in prison for grand theft of a motor vehicle fraudulent use of personal identification information and two counts of petit theft stemming from the shooting and robbery incident the preceded the triple killings and court records show that case is ongoing Information: The latest: New details emerge in Ocklawaha triple homicide In the days leading up to the three killings Brewton was being investigated for other cases Brewton pleaded no contest to carjacking while armed and tampering with electronic monitoring device and was sentenced to 20 years in prison Defense attorney Charles Vaughn is Brewton's lawyer for the murder charges. Local defense lawyer Jack Maro is representing Robinson in the murder case The Kentucky Derby will have a decidedly Florida feel to the field on Saturday Sandman (6-1) graduated from the early training program of Tom McCrocklin in Ocala and is now trained by Hall of Fame trainer Mark Casse of Ocala The horse was purchased at the Ocala Breeders Sales for $1.2 million and is now owned in part by Florida breeders St A pair of 12-1 picks also have Florida connections Rodriguez graduated from the early training program at Eddie Woods Stable in Ocala while Burnham Square received early training at Roy Lerman’s Lambholm South in Ocala and was later trained at Palm Meadows Training Center in Boynton Beach Other Derby horses with Florida ties include: — Neoequos (30-1): Florida-bred, Florida-owned, and receiving training by Saffie Josephs Jr. in Florida. He is a graduate of the 2023 Ocala Breeders Sales Yearling Sale by Josephs. He received his early training at Susan Montanye’s SBM Training and Sales in Ocala and finished third in the Florida Derby — American Promise (30-1): Graduate of the early training program at Rice Family’s Woodside Ranch near Ocala in Fort McCoy — Citizen Bull (20-1): Graduate of the early training program at Eddie Woods Stable in Ocala — East Avenue (20-1): Graduate of early training program at Bridlewood Farm in Ocala — Grande (20-1): Received early training from Karl Keegan’s Lucan Bloodstock based at Oak Ridge Training Center in Morriston — Flying Mohawk (30-1): Owned by former Major League Baseball outfielder Jayson Werth in Sarasota — Render Judgment (30-1): Received his early training at trainer Ken McPeek’s Silverleaf Hills Training Center in Summerfield — Owen Almighty (30-1): Winner of the Lambholm South Tampa Bay Derby at Tampa Bay Downs One other horse without a direct Florida connection has a nod to the state in its name: Admire Daytona is a Japanese horse who has been tabbed as a 30-1 shot to win and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" This platform and all of its content are owned by Extensive Enterprises Media Publisher: Peter Schorsch @PeterSchorschFL © Copyright by Extensive-Enterprises 2025. All rights reserved. STAFF LOGIN – Residents in Marion County were ordered to evacuate on Friday after a 150-acre wildfire broke out near the Ocala National Forest In a release USFS officials said that the fire was burning near 11005 S.E An evacuation order was later issued for Highway 314 in east Marion County at 7:12 p.m As a result, the Reverse 911/Alert Marion emergency system was used to alert those who need to evacuate Shortly afterward, Marion County Fire Rescue declared that the evacuation order was lifted firefighters are expected to remain at the scene overnight to monitor the fire the USFS announced that smoke was heavy in that area thus urging drivers against using the route “Please continue to refrain from unnecessary travel on 314,” the release reads “Expect continued smoke impact along the road over the next few days and drive accordingly as smoke may mix with fog and severely impact visibility.” Data from the Florida Forest Service shows that as of 9:30 p.m WEIRSDALE — A motorcycle rider died the afternoon of April 26 when he was involved in a two-vehicle wreck in southeast Marion County At Southeast Sunset Harbor Road and County Road 25 Marion County Fire Rescue spokesman James Lucas said his agency was assigned the call at 4:08 p.m The patient was transported to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital where law enforcement officials said he died FHP officials said a Hyundai Tucson driven by an 80-year-old woman from Weirsdale was eastbound on Sunset Harbor Road and stopped at the stop sign whose rider was a 74-year-old man from New Port Richey Officials said the elderly driver apparently did not see the motorcycle rider and pulled out onto the road in an attempt to go straight Motorcycle death: Fort McCoy man killed Friday night when he was struck while riding a motorcycle The motorcycle rider was not wearing a helmet She had minor injures and did not go to the hospital by ALEXX ALTMAN-DEVILBISS | The National News Desk (TNND) — A Florida woman accused of sexually abusing her 15-year-old stepson had her nursing license suspended months after her arrest The affidavit states police received an anonymous tip about the alleged sexual activity on July 30 and "included information that the [alleged] child victim's father had walked in on the incident." Deputies reported the alleged abuse began when the alleged child victim and the suspect were "relaxing" and "playing a video game" together while his father worked late as a lineman before they "decided to watch a movie." the suspect allegedly told the teenager how "horny" she was "because she had not had sex in two weeks," per the affidavit "He recalled that the suspect had been making sexual jokes for approximately a week leading up to this incident continuously saying how 'horny' she was," the document stated because you're not old enough," before continuing to have sex on the couch When the child's father walked in on them and confronted the suspect that his son looked just like him "when he was younger." The alleged child victim said during a forensic experiential trauma interview that during the week leading up to the abuse that the suspect had stuck her tongue out at him while eating whipped cream as well as stating "I bet everyone thought you were my little toy boy," when the pair went to the gym together When the teenager's father had taken him to his grandparents' house after the alleged abuse and she allegedly told him she wished his father "had not caught them." The Florida Department of Health's online license verification records list Yates as having her single-state license suspended per an Emergency Suspension Order filed on April 25 The original license was listed as being issued in 2016 Her attorney pleaded not guilty to the charge of sexual battery on a person 12 to 18 years of age by a person in familial custody on her behalf on Dec. 10, according to Ocala-news.com (Correction: The land in question is east of Southwest 60th Avenue An earlier version of this story gave an incorrect location.) The County Commission on April 15 unanimously rejected a rezoning request that was needed to clear the way for a 73-home development in southwest Marion. That is north of Southwest 52nd Street and east of 60th Avenue asked the commission to rezone the land from General Agriculture (A-1) to Planned Unit Development (PUD) which would include 73 one- and two-story homes What recommendations were presented to the commission?County staff recommended approval of the request So did the Planning & Zoning Commission in a 6-1 vote People who live and work near the site told commissioners that the land which once served as a construction-and-demolition debris landfill based on their own observations and past findings of the state Department of Environmental Protection that in past years the landfill was a dumping ground not just for authorized material but also for much unauthorized material including car batteries metal drums filled with unknown substances They said they believe the soil is tainted and that old trees and other vegetative materials used to fill over the old landfill won't make for a suitable building base They predicted that sinkholes would form and house foundations would crack "This land is not suitable for building homes," nearby resident Tim Armstrong said told commissioners that the DEP has deemed the landfill — which operated when the land was under different ownership — properly closed and not in need of further monitoring His own tests have shown little topographical change in more than a decade "We are proceeding as we need to proceed and shall do to make sure that it (the land in question) is environmentally safe for people to build upon and develop," Anderson told the commission He said the owner will comply with whatever DEP requests county staff notes that "any soil disturbance or redevelopment of the site will necessitate oversight by the Florida DEP the Florida DEP will be required to review and approve an excavation and disposal plan as well as ensure compliance with all applicable regulations before any development activities may commence." The owner previously had agreed, at the request of the Ocala International Airport, to add a disclosure statement to each property to inform buyers of their proximity to the airport What did the county commission do?Commissioner Craig Curry made a motion to deny the request saying the rezoning was not in the public interest Commissioner Michelle Stone seconded the motion was not compatible with the surrounding property Commission Chairwoman Kathy Bryant and Commissioners Carl Zalak and Matt McClain joined in voting no (This story was updated because an earlier version included an inaccuracy.) 'The SpongeBob Musical'This show, the final one for Ocala Civic Theatre's season, is live onstage May 1-18. More at ocalacivictheatre.com From 6-9 p.m. May 2 in downtown Ocala. Live music, artists, shops with extended hours and more. More at www.ocalafl.gov/government/city-departments-i-z/recreation-parks/cultural-arts/first-friday-art-walk presented by the Marion Cultural Alliance and Philantho-Creatives "This one-of-a-kind showcase explores the transformative power of music inviting audiences to experience innovative installations and captivating artworks that reflect the rhythm and evolution of artistic expression," organizers say The gallery is open Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m 2025 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series: Nattali Rize (reggae)  Nattali Rize (reggae) will play May 2 in the latest installment of this concert series Organizing the series are the Marion Cultural Alliance Commemorative Commission of Marion County and the Juneteenth Celebration Commission Concerts are free and are held outdoors from 6-8 p.m Fridays through May 16 at Webb Field in the Martin Luther King Jr Seals & Crofts 2This musical act, featuring Brady Seals and Lua Crofts, will be live onstage at 7:30 p.m. May 2 at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala. Tickets from $28. More at reillyartscenter.com Feelin’ Good: The Ultimate Michael Bublé ExperienceThis tribute concert will be live onstage at 7:30 p.m. May 3 at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala. Tickets from $40. More at reillyartscenter.com Ocala Symphony Orchestra Community Music Conservatory studentsThe spring recital will be at 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. May 4 at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala. Tickets are $5. More at reillyartscenter.com Larry & Joe (Venezuelan Joropo & Appalachian folk) will play May 9 in the latest installment of this concert series This event will begin at 7:30 p.m. May 9 at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala. Tickets from $35. This event "creates a one of a kind visually immersive and entertaining 80s experience by performing the soundtrack of your life in exact time with the original, iconic music videos" from artists such as Prince, The Cure, Bon Jovi, Billy Idol, Duran Duran, Queen, U2 and Bruce Springsteen, organizers say. More at reillyartscenter.com/ Blues in the Box: JP SoarsBlues guitarist and vocalist J.P. Soars will be live onstage at 7:30 p.m. May 10 at the NOMA Black Box inside the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala. Tickets from $34. More at reillyartscenter.com/ This Mother's Day tradition will once again be held at the Ocala Golf Club. Gates open at 3 p.m. May 11, the Ocala Symphony Orchestra plays at 7 p.m., and the evening is capped off with fireworks about 8:45 p.m. Bring your own picnic, including including alcoholic drinks, or visit on-site local food trucks. This is a paid event. Regular and VIP tickets available. Children younger than 17 get in free. All details at https://fafo.org/symphonytix This Led Zeppelin tribute begins at 7:30 p.m. May 17 at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala. Tickets from $25. More at reillyartscenter.com/ This tribute performance begins at 7:30 p.m. May 18 at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE Ninth St., Ocala. Tickets from $34. More at reillyartscenter.com/ Amy Wuertz in concertThe soprano will be live in concert at 3 p.m This is part of the Seasons of Joy concert series "Find a fresh breath of spring" in this new exhibit up through May 29 at the Chelsea Art Center "Stunning art works by 28 talented local artists are for sale," organizers say This collection is up through June 8 at the Appleton Museum of Art's Balcony Gallery for Florida Artists. "The exhibition features 30 black-and-white and color photographs by the Venezuelan-born artist," organizers say. The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. The Appleton is at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. More at 352-291-4455 or AppletonMuseum.org Art in City SpacesThis city of Ocala program offers the following: A man scheduled to be sentenced on multiple counts of animal cruelty has died Matthew Wayne KeelJudge: Circuit Judge Timothy McCourt Lawyers: Anthony Sabatini for the defense and Assistant State Attorney Madison Kirkland for the prosecution Charges: According to Keel's change of plea agreement he faced 23 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and 20 counts of animal cruelty Keel pleaded no contest pursuant to the agreement with this state agreed to serve 43 months in prison followed by two years of house arrest and two years of probation Keel would only be charged with the first 10 counts; the remaining counts would be dismissed Keel had agreed to serve 400 hours of community service He also would not have been allowed to own care for or live in the same residence as any animals And he would have been required to register with the Marion County Animal Abuse registry and pay restitution to the county's animal services department Court: Ocala courts: Men accused of soliciting kids for sex online have been sentenced. About the case: An animal control official went to Keel's residence in the 5700 block of Northwest Sixth Street last year to investigate a dog fight Keel refused to allow him to enter the residence The official said the odor was overwhelming A search warrant was obtained for the residence A deputy accompanied the animal official to the residence authorities said the conditions were deplorable Keel was arrested after he was interviewed by officials According to a Marion County Sheriff's Office report Keel was discovered deceased at the residence where the dogs had lived In February, a grand jury indicted Scotty Eugene King and Brandon Michael Angevine for sex-related offenses is charged with two counts of sexual battery on a child under 12 and one count of lewd and lascivious molestation on a victim under 12 Angevine faces a charge of sexual battery on a child under 12 Lawyers at the State Attorney's Office have reviewed both cases and decided not to seek the death penalty and prosecuting the case is Assistant State Attorney Drew Brandies Defending Angevine is Assistant Public Defender Chad Hutcheson; Assistant State Attorney Shanae Pickens is prosecuting the case These restaurants met all standards during their April 7-13 inspections and no violations were found These restaurants failed their April 7-13 inspections and were temporarily closed Facility Temporarily Closed: Operations ordered stopped until violations are corrected Which Marion County restaurants had high priority violations?Amrit Palace Indian Restaurant3415 SW College Road Darrell's Diner 617350 SE 109 Terr Rd #1 Hampton Inn & Suites2075 SW County Road 484 Los Magueyes10465 SE U.S My Quate119 S What agency inspects restaurants in Florida?Routine regulation and inspection of restaurants is conducted by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation Organizers say more than 500 people participated in the Ocala version of the nationwide "Hands Off!" protest on April 5 waving signs and speaking out against the Trump Administration's policies According to USA TODAY, thousands of people protested in New York City. There were similar protests in multiple other cities, large and small Jason Leigh Dykes may never stand trial. But for now, a judge has declined to dismiss the charges against him The court already has found that Dykes is mentally incompetent to stand trial owing to his medical condition which includes severe traumatic brain injury and strokes But Circuit Judge Peter Brigham denied the defense request for dismissal Ocala defense attorney David Mengers argued that Dykes has "little likelihood of attaining competency" and is not a danger to the community which "provides that the charges against any defendant found to be incompetent to proceed due to intellectual disability shall be dismissed without prejudice to the state if the defendant remains incompetent to proceed within a reasonable time after such determination unless the court in its order specifies its reasons for believing that the defendant will become competent to proceed within foreseeable future and specifies the time within which the defendant is expected to become competent to proceed." The lawyer noted that if the charges are dismissed the state could always refile the charges if his client is later declared competent to proceed But Assistant State Attorney Janine Nixon argued that the charges "should be dismissed only when the court has determined that the defendant has remained incompetent for five (5) continuous and uninterrupted years." Nixon went on to argue: "The testimony at the hearing and the nature of the defendant's injuries are such that restoration of competency is possible with rehabilitation even if there is not a substantial likelihood The state will monitor the defendant and seek to have the defendant re-evaluated periodically to determine his level of competency." Dykes is charged with DUI manslaughter driving with license suspended with crash causing death or serious bodily injury and two counts of DUI impairment with property damage or at the Marion County Jail for nearly five years before being released to family a few months ago Florida Highway Patrol officials said Dykes was involved in a fiery two-vehicle wreck in May 2020 that killed 31-year-old Joshua Torch at County Road 484 and County Road 467 Authorities were told that Dykes ran the red light and slammed into Torch's vehicle which is more than twice the state's legal limit of 0.08 In court: State to judge: We followed the law in DUI manslaughter case Dykes was in the hospital and at a rehab facility until October 2021 The World Equestrian Center has provided new details about Equestrian Manor the meeting and dining venue that is being developed on its campus and is scheduled to open this fall the center has a new name: Equestrian Manor It previously was referred to as the Event Center at WEC The center will have traditional event space (ballrooms, meeting rooms) suitable for meetings, conferences, weddings and other special events, according to an April 17 WEC news release. WEC previously had said the center would have "four additional dining concepts" that included two rooftop restaurants and bars The April 17 news release provides the full details: "The second location will offer European coffeehouse favorites along with handcrafted chocolates made by in-house chocolatiers in addition to light options for breakfast dinner and late-night bites," the release says WEC's Shoppes off 80th retail expansion is scheduled to open in 2026 The World Equestrian Center is west of Northwest 80th Avenue, north of State Road 40 West and south of U.S. 27. Time magazine named it one of the World's Greatest Places of 2024. From the Star-Banner archives: World Equestrian Center stories and photos from the Ocala Star Banner